Redskins atop division coming off bye week ASHBURN –
The minute Philadelphia started losing one game after another … and Dallas blew big leads … and the Giants suffered injuries, the Redskins elevated themselves in the division.
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After only four games, the Redskins can rightly ask: How can they win the division? It’s the same thing their three division brethren are asking as well.
Not that the players are focused on where they could be after 16 games.
“It’s too early,” linebacker Brian Orakpo said. “We’ve accomplished some goals, but we have a long way.”
Here’s how they compare to the rest of the division:
Redskins (3-1)
Why they’re a contender »
The Redskins’ defense is ranked sixth in the NFL and third in scoring, the more important statistic. They’ve rushed the passer well and don’t always need to send more than five rushers to be effective. Offensively, their ground game is effective, though unproven vs. good defenses. The line is better and in this offense, it does not need to be great.
Where they fall short »
The Redskins lack enough offensive playmakers, unlike their divisional rivals. Washington has players who can move the chains well, which is fine if they don’t turn it over much. Rex Grossman is not the only quarterback in the NFC East who has bad moments. However, his mistakes often are magnified because the Redskins just don’t score as much as the others.
Giants (3-2)
Why they’re a contender » They have playmakers on offense, and a quarterback who is averaging more than two touchdowns a game. Eli Manning has a passer rating of 102.3, best in the division. Their defense is OK, but injuries have played a major role in their performance.
Where they fall short »
They have not run the ball well enough behind a revamped line. Meanwhile, the defense is allowing over 4 yards per carry. They’ve also dealt with more injuries to key players than any other team in the division since training camp opened.
Cowboys (2-2)
Why they’re a contender » Dallas still has a lot of talent, especially in their defensive front seven. The Cowboys rank fourth in total defense but 23rd in points allowed. The Cowboys also have the requisite big-time talent offensively with quarterback Tony Romo and receivers Miles Austin and Dez Bryant. Every fourth completion to those wideouts results in a touchdown.
Where they fall short » Romo continues to struggle in key moments. He’s lucky his last name isn’t Grossman. Also, their line is young and inconsistent, leading to issues in the ground game.
Eagles (1-4)
Why they’re a contender » Despite a 1-4 record, the Eagles have several players who scare defenses. The Eagles have elite playmakers at receiver and an excellent running back in LeSean McCoy. Michael Vick remains a big-time threat.
Where they fall short » They’re a defensive mess. This isn’t about chemistry, it’s about an organization putting together a group that has not meshed with the scheme. It’s hard to see this improving enough for them to have a dream season. The interior of their offensive line isn’t good.
